Frequently Asked Questions
Entrained air refers to tiny air bubbles that become trapped within a liquid or fluid. These bubbles can occur naturally or be deliberately introduced during industrial processes. On the other hand, dissolved air refers to air molecules that are dissolved within the liquid itself, typically under pressure. Both entrained and dissolved air can impact the performance of various systems and processes, affecting factors such as fluid viscosity, buoyancy, and chemical reactions. At PAPEC, we specialize in measuring and controlling entrained and dissolved air to optimize industrial processes and ensure efficient operation.
Entrained air refers to air dispersed throughout a liquid in the form of bubbles. Dissolved air is molecularly dispersed among the oil molecules. It is not entrained air bubbles dispersed in the liquid. Therefore, unlike entrained air, dissolved air has minimal effect on the properties of the dissolved air/oil mixture. Dissolved air does not become an issue until some of the dissolved air releases from solution, into the form of entrained air bubbles.
As a hydraulic system is operated, oil passes through various orifices and constrictions. These constrictions result in localized low-pressure areas on the downstream side of the constrictions. The low pressure causes some of the dissolved air to release into the form of entrained air. This entrained air causes serious problems such as:
- Unpredictable decreases in the elastic modulus of hydraulic oil leads to errors in response rate of hydraulic actuators. The effect can be as little as extra time to complete a task or as critical as the loss of a rocket launcher.
- Entrained air reduces pump capacity
- The collapse of entrained air bubbles in high-pressure zones in the process leads to cavitation and errosive destruction..
- Collapsing entrained air bubbles in oil generate enough heat to cause partial combustion of the oil, resulting in formation of carbonaceous deposits which can block oil passages.
There are many devices available for removing dissolved air from hydraulic oil. What is always missing with the operation of these devices is testing methods to determine when the dissolved air content has been removed to a safe level. PAPEC has measurement tools that are suitable for this task. PAPEC also has extensive engineering expertise available for consulting on these issues.
At PAPEC, we specialize in entrained air and dissolved air measurement, providing precise analysis of air content in various industrial processes. Additionally, we offer entrained air and dissolved air control services, implementing effective strategies to manage and optimize air levels for enhanced operational efficiency. Clients can trust us to deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to their needs, ensuring optimal performance and productivity.
You can contact us at PAPEC through our multiple options. Give us a call at 253-335-3665. Send an email to steve.dougherty@papec.com. Or fill out the contact form found on the site.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Request Information
Questions about entrained or dissolved air measurement? Send us a message and a PAPEC expert will get back to you shortly.
